Arsonists have deliberately sparked 12 fires in Victoria as soaring temperatures and strong winds create the most dangerous fire conditions since Black Saturday.
Victoria Police Chief Commissioner Ken Lay said police believe 12 of the 68 fires burning across the state were deliberately lit.
Most of those fires were sparked on the urban fringes of Melbourne, including three grass fires in Epping, in the city's north.
Detectives are now investigating those fires.
Victorian Premier Denis Napthine said it was a disgraceful act for anyone to deliberately start a blaze on a day of high fire danger.
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"There are no words that can be used to describe the lowlife that would light fires in these situations," he told reporters.
"They are putting lives at risk."
